Retail Details - Small businesses have markdowns for holiday weekend

Published: Thursday, July 4, 2013 at 4:21 p.m.

Last Modified: Thursday, July 4, 2013 at 4:21 p.m.

Now that the smoke has cleared from the Fourth of July fireworks, it is easy to see the deals. This weekend, several small businesses are celebrating the nation's independence with giveaways and markdowns.

Sole Searching

Patriotism has been on full display in Southport the past week. Home to the N.C. Fourth of July Festival, it is no surprise Southport businesses want to reward locals and visitors alike with a few bargains.

With the weather's permission and cooperation, two racks of apparel will be rolled outside for the sale. Summer styles will be marked down from 50 to 75 percent. Pieces from brands Lilly Pulitzer, Johnny Was and other designers will be making appearances on the racks. Shoes, handbags and select swimwear will be included in the sales.

Duck Duck Goose

Kicking back by the pool, firing up the grill and having a day off from work are staples of the Independence Day holiday. Well, there is one many in particular who is savoring his vacation days. Now that we are more than half way to his busiest work day of the year, Santa Claus is catching some rays in Southport before heading back to his workshop to get cracking on that naughty and nice list.

Duck Duck Goose, a gift shop that specializes in locally made crafts, will host Santa Claus on Friday during its Santa on Vacation event. He will be available at the shop, located at 104 E. Moore St., for photos at no charge. Just bring your own camera.

The shop is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive at the store at 11 a.m.

Island Chic Consignment Boutique

A short ferry ride from Southport will lead you to Carolina Beach.

Home to several unique shops with plenty of personality, Carolina Beach is full of sales this weekend. Last week I mentioned Touche's sale, which will continue through Tuesday at its storefront, 201 N. Lake Park Blvd. Also joining the ranks of independently owned-and operated-shops that are celebrating Independence Day sales is Island Chic Consignment Boutique, 1009 N. Lake Park Blvd.

Carrying consigned apparel, jewelry, handbags and other accessories, the shop is giving a token of appreciation to all its buying customers. With every purchase of $20 or more, the shop is giving away a free pair of flip-flops. Stop in while supplies last.

Unique Boutique of Carolina Beach

Pick up the perfect sundress for a summertime backyard barbecue this weekend from Unique Boutique in Carolina Beach, 205 S. Lake Park Blvd.

Specializing in women's apparel, accessories and shoes, the shop is offering 20- to 40-percent off select items. Stop in to the colorful shop to snap up major deals on one-of-a-kind merchandise.

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